2063 Shark Bites TN No. 6 - Sharks survive September, end playoff drought (Blacktown News)

[thatboynicecoast]

Sydney Sharks End Six-Year Playoff Drought Behind Rookie Phenom Ming Zhang
By Carter Bowen
Blacktown News

SYDNEY -- The Sydney Sharks have punched their ticket to the postseason for just the second time in franchise history, clinching a wild card berth with an 87-75 record despite a turbulent September. Their playoff return, the first since 2056, was fueled by a second-half surge from 21-year-old rookie starter Ming Zhang, whose 10-1 record and starter-best 4.14 ERA stabilized a rotation that weathered inconsistencies and routine blow ups.

The Zhang Effect
Acquired in the 2062 draft, Zhang's midseason call-up transformed Sydney's pitching staff. The Singapore-born righty earned 10 wins in his first 10 career decisions. His blistering 18-game undefeated streak and the fact he's the lone pitcher in the rotation with a positive WPA quickly thrust Zhang into the ace role. "He's got the poise of a 10-year vet," said manager Jim Sanchez. "When we were spiraling, Ming steadied us."

Surviving the September Swoon
The Sharks nearly squandered their playoff hopes with a 4-13 finish, including a 1-6 record against division champ Johannesburg. But Sao Paulo's own arduous month, which featured a 1-8 stretch, kept the Sharks in position.

Historic Context
Sydney's 87 wins marks the first winning season since 2057. The turnaround is largely thanks to an historic offense, which set franchise records in each slash component (.288/.352/.480/.832). This year's Fins paced every Sydney team before it in hits, doubles, home runs, walks, stolen bases and, of course, runs with 933.

What's Next
Sanchez confirmed Zhang will start the opening game of the postseason against the Gold with hopes of pairing him with reliever Edgardo Reyes in a tandem effort. "We're not here to participate, we're here to compete," Zhang said through a translator.

For a franchise long synonymous with futility, 2063 has already been a triumph. But the Sharks, led by their unflappable rookie, aren't done yet.

First pitch for the first round matchup is set for October 1 in Johannesburg. Sydney expects to see Aaron Bridges and Max Dawe in some order in games one and two.

[Graham]

Congrats! Gonna be a great playoff series.

[thatboynicecoast]

It will be quick but we're happy to be here